Demystifying VA C&P Exams: Your Top 10 Questions Answered

As a veteran seeking disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), one of the key steps in the process is undergoing a Compensation and Pension (C&P) examination. This exam, also known as a VA disability exam, helps determine the degree of your disability and how it has affected your ability to work. While this exam can seem daunting at first, understanding what to expect can help alleviate any anxiety or uncertainties.

To help demystify VA C&P exams, we've compiled a list of the top 10 questions veterans commonly ask about these exams.

1. What is a VA C&P exam?

A VA C&P exam is a medical evaluation conducted by a healthcare professional to assess the severity of your disabilities and how they impact your daily life. The results of this exam will help determine your eligibility for disability benefits from the VA.

2. Who conducts the VA C&P exam?

The VA contracts with independent medical professionals, known as Compensation and Pension Examiners (CPEs), to conduct these exams. These individuals are typically doctors, nurses, or other healthcare providers trained in evaluating disabilities.

3. Where do VA C&P exams take place?

VA C&P exams can take place at a variety of locations, including VA medical facilities, private doctor's offices, or even your own home if you have mobility issues. The location will depend on the availability of CPEs in your area and the type of exam being conducted.
4. Do I have to pay for a VA C&P exam?

No, as a veteran seeking disability benefits from the VA, you do not have to pay for a C&P exam. These exams are fully covered by the VA.

5. How long does a VA C&P exam last?

The length of a C&P exam can vary depending on the disabilities being evaluated and the complexity of your case. On average, these exams typically range from 30 minutes to an hour.

6. What should I bring to my VA C&P exam?

It is important to bring any relevant medical records or documentation that support your claim for disability benefits. This can include medical reports, X-rays, and other diagnostic test results.

7. Can I have someone accompany me to my VA C&P exam?

Yes, you are allowed to have a family member, friend, or caregiver accompany you to your C&P exam if you wish. They can provide additional information and assistance during the exam.

8. What types of questions will be asked during a VA C&P exam?

The CPE will ask a variety of questions related to your disabilities and how they affect your daily life and ability to work. These questions may also cover your medical history, current symptoms, and any treatments you have received.

9. Can I request a specific CPE for my VA C&P exam?

While you cannot specifically request a certain CPE, you can request that the examiner has experience in evaluating your specific disabilities. The VA will do their best to accommodate this request.

10. What happens after a VA C&P exam is completed?

After your C&P exam is complete, the examiner will submit their findings and recommendations to the VA for review. You will then receive a decision on your disability claim based on these results.
In conclusion, understanding what to expect during a VA C&P exam can help alleviate any stress or anxiety and ensure that you are fully prepared for the process. If you have any further questions, it is always best to consult with a VA representative for more information. We hope this guide has helped demystify some of the common questions surrounding these exams and wish you all the best in your disability claim journey.

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[donlombard]

both my mh c&p exam 's happened within 4 days of filing went to them and was awarded 50% the 1st time and 70% for my increase got the paper work after my c & p examinations both times and it took on average 15 days to be rated

[dlawso]

I'm going to my second C&P exam for Allergic Rhinitis/Sinusitis (presumptive claim/Gulf War/OIF) within 90 days. The last examiner did not conduct the examination correctly and she reviewed my medical file before I arrived. I was also asked to bring a list of medications related to the claim. Don't dress like you are going to a job interview, my examiner for mental health claim made a comment about the shoes I had on, how "nice" they looked. These doctors will size you up. I did receive a 70% rating with PTSD (Loss of Sleep).

[ddem]

Service connections can be easily established by stating when symptoms started.

[sm]

Hey Craig,

I'm a Combat Craig member, but I don't know how to ask this question in the member's section.

You stated in the video that we should try to give a DBQ to the C&P Examiner. Please clarify what you meant?

Do I fill out the DBQ and give it to the C&P examiner, or were you stating to bring your medical evidence (medical record, etc...) because the VA probably didn't send them to the C&P Examiner?

[brandytharp]

With the cuts is the VA looking at lowering 100% p&t?

[gadget_hack]

My appointment got reschedule today for no reason.

[carlsonwolf]

HLR informal conference is Monday. They denied my service connection migraines secondary to tinnitus because their doctor had a difference of opinion, even with my doctors. I had a current diagnosis, a nexus, a personal statement and buddy letter referencing to migraines in service. I suffer from these every week, and it’s like they said no because they wanted to. They just filled out all the paperwork without asking me any questions or scheduling appointments.

[ddem]

Ha ha. Craig. If u were a clam, you'd be a bearded clam.

[ddem]

When in cp exam...act totally unaware and just answer questions as If you're having a bad day as usual.

[evanalmighty]

I hope my 100 p&t don't get reduced

[ddem]

If civilian doc already diagnosed your sleep apnea...then you just need service connection.

[ddem]

Clue the troops Craig. If a doc already diagnosed veteran, then cp exam has no weight.